Wandering Minstrels: The History of Travelling Opera in Britain

The purpose of this study day is to explore the rich history of travelling opera in Britain from the 19th Century onwards. The event will draw together a wide range of scholars, researchers, performers and enthusiasts to discuss this neglected and revealing subject. Papers will focus on the many aspects of travelling opera, including the running of companies, the adventures of the many musicians connected with them, and the repertoire (including British operas) they toured. The speakers include: Professor Katherine Preston (College of William and Mary, USA), Dr Paul Rodmell (Birmingham), Dr Raymond Holden (RAM), John Ward (the Carl Rosa Trust), representatives from English Touring Opera, and Dr Steven Martin. They will talk about the repertoire, singers and conductors associated with the hundreds of companies which once toured the length and breadth of Britain and the Empire. For more information, or to book a place, please contact the organiser, Dr Steven Martin, at travellingopera1898@gmail.com. Tickets will be available online at: http://www.ram.ac.uk/events from Saturday 6th July, or from the Royal Academy of Music’s Box Office (tel. 020 7873 7300) from Monday 9th September.